As summer fades and the crisp days of fall approach, this is an ideal moment for multifamily property managers to take stock of their smart technology systems. A comprehensive end-of-summer tech tune-up can help prevent seasonal disruptions, reduce costs, and ensure resident satisfaction continues long into the cooler months.
This checklist focuses on the essential smart technologies, including HVAC systems, smart locks, water management, and video doorbells, that keep multifamily properties running smoothly and securely.
1. Smart HVAC: Run Diagnostics and Prep for Temperature Swings
As temperatures begin to cool, smart HVAC systems play a pivotal role in ensuring comfort and efficiency. Begin by running system diagnostics to detect any performance issues before the system is heavily relied upon for heating. Smart thermostats should be calibrated and updated, and schedules adjusted based on expected occupancy.
PointCentral’s smart thermostats can reduce heating bills by around 9-16% and cooling bills by 15-23%, leading to long-term savings.
2. Inspect Smart Locks and Refresh Access Credentials
Smart access technology forms the backbone of modern multifamily security and access management. Before fall, inspect all smart locks for wear and ensure that batteries are charged or replaced where needed. Revoke outdated access codes and generate new ones for maintenance teams and shared facility access.
Smart locks for apartments not only improve security but also eliminate the inefficiencies of physical key management. Their remote programmability supports smoother move-ins, maintenance, and self-guided tours.
3. Test Smart Water Sensors and Shut-Off Valves
With potential weather-related issues ahead, it’s essential to ensure that smart water management systems are functioning optimally. Check smart water sensors in high-risk areas like under sinks, near water heaters, and HVAC systems. Verify that automated shut-off valves respond appropriately to detected leaks.
Water leaks are one of the costliest maintenance problems. Smart sensors help catch issues early and reduce insurance claims, saving properties both money and disruption.
4. Evaluate Smart Video Doorbell Performance
Smart video doorbells provide critical surveillance, especially as days grow shorter and resident deliveries increase. Clean camera lenses, verify night vision capabilities with residents and ask them to check that motion detection is working properly.
Leading systems, like PointCentral’s VDB750, are designed to function in extreme temperatures from -58°F to 122°F, making them resilient year-round security assets. These devices not only deter unwanted visitors but also enhance the resident experience by allowing remote visual communication.
5. Update Software and Integrate Systems
A seasonal check-in is the perfect opportunity to update your smart property automation systems and ensure full integration with your property management software (PMS). This is particularly important ahead of budget season when data-driven decisions on upgrades or replacements may be necessary.
Centralizing multifamily technology, combining smart access, HVAC, video, and water systems, under one platform supports operational efficiency and a unified view of property performance.
Ready for Fall? Your Residents Will Thank You
Taking time now to assess your smart tech ensures your multifamily properties are prepared for seasonal shifts. By optimizing system performance, refreshing security protocols, and ensuring seamless integrations, you not only avoid costly breakdowns but also elevate resident satisfaction and peace of mind.
Want to find out more on multifamily property management? Read Mike Branam’s article in Residential Tech Today on the importance of utilising your data.
